SPEARFISH, S.D. - University of Arkansas - Fort Smith Men's Basketball saw a late lead slip away as the Lions fell in overtime, 77-72, at Black Hills State Saturday in game two of the South Central Region Crossover.
UAFS led 64-57 after a free throw by guard Cameron Bush with 3:03 remaining and 66-63 with just over a minute left. The Lions had an empty possession with 22 second left, in which the Yellow Jackets then went the length of the floor and converted an and-one opportunity to tie the game.
The Lions had an opportunity to win the game at the buzzer but were unable to get a shot off.
In the overtime period, the Yellow Jackets struck first and built a 73-68 lead. UAFS would get back within three twice but ran out of time to make the comeback.
Despite trailing at the break, the Lions stayed in the game and eventually broke through with an 8-1 run to take a 60-64 lead with 5:16 left.
Four Lions scored in double figures, led by 19 points from guard Lian Ramiro. Bush and forward Ryan Maxwell each scored 15 points, while forward Addison Wallace chipped in 14.
Wallace had a team-high nine rebounds while Ramiro added eight boards.
UAFS won the turnover battle, but was unable to capitalize on points off those turnovers. The Lions gathered 18 offensive rebounds, leading to an 18-0 advantage in second chance points.
The Lions will return to the Stubblefield Center for their home opener November 18 at 1 p.m. versus Harding University.
